2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2022 Ford Expedition

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L was a fresh addition to the Jeep lineup, distinct from the existing Grand Cherokee. It was an extended-length version of the upcoming 2022 Grand Cherokee, featuring a third-row seat and increased cargo space. Despite the potential confusion of its model year designation, the Grand Cherokee L was expected to sell well due to its appealing styling, reminiscent of the more expensive Wagoneer models. The SUV's design was unmistakably Jeep, with its signature seven-slot grille and trapezoidal wheel arches, and it was available in various trims, from Laredo to Summit Reserve, with prices ranging from $36,995 to $64,235.

The 2022 Ford Expedition underwent several updates, including exterior styling revisions and enhanced infotainment technology. It featured a new grille, headlights, and bumper, along with redesigned wheels across its lineup. The Expedition was available in multiple trims, including a new Timberline trim for off-road enthusiasts. Prices ranged from just over $55,000 to nearly $84,000. The interior boasted a redesigned dashboard with the new Sync 4 and Sync 4A infotainment systems, offering a large touchscreen display. The Expedition Limited Stealth Edition, priced at $80,155, included features like 4WD, a Stealth Package, and a Heavy Duty Trailer Tow Package, providing a blend of luxury and capability.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L came standard with a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered rear-wheel drive or a choice of three 4WD systems, with a maximum tow rating of 6,200 pounds. The optional 5.7-liter V8 engine, available on higher trims, delivered 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, increasing towing capacity to 7,200 pounds. However, the V8's fuel economy was lower, at 17 mpg combined. The Grand Cherokee L's Quadra-Lift adaptive air suspension provided a smooth ride, with off-road modes like Snow, Mud/Sand, and Rock. It offered up to 10.9 inches of ground clearance and 24 inches of water fording capability.

The 2022 Ford Expedition featured a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, producing 380 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque, with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Expedition's powertrain allowed for towing between 9,000 and 9,300 pounds, depending on the model. The Stealth Edition Performance Package increased output to 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. The Expedition's ride quality was sometimes harsh due to its sport-tuned suspension and large 22-inch wheels. However, it excelled on the highway, offering a quiet and comfortable ride. The Expedition's adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist provided a smooth driving experience, although the lane-centering technology had some quirks.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered a comfortable interior, especially in Summit trim, with heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats. It featured a four-zone automatic climate control system, although the dashboard vents were small, affecting cooling efficiency. The second-row captain's chairs provided ample legroom, and the third row was surprisingly comfortable for adults. Cargo space behind the third row measured 17.2 cubic feet, expanding to 46.9 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 84.6 cubic feet with both rear rows down.

The 2022 Ford Expedition excelled in interior space and comfort, with power-adjustable, leather-wrapped, heated, and ventilated front seats. The second-row captain's chairs offered plenty of legroom, and the third row provided good leg support, although headroom was limited for taller passengers. Cargo space behind the third row was 19.3 cubic feet, with 57.5 cubic feet available with the third row folded, and 104.6 cubic feet with both rear rows down. The Expedition Max variant offered even more cargo space.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, available with 8.4-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreens. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Alexa compatibility, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The optional 19-speaker McIntosh audio system provided excellent sound quality. Additional features included a 10.25-inch digital instrumentation panel, a digital rearview mirror, and a Fam Cam rear-seat monitoring system.

The 2022 Ford Expedition introduced the Sync 4 and Sync 4A infotainment systems, with a 12-inch or 15.5-inch touchscreen. Both systems offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, FordPass Connect, and a connected navigation system. Higher trims included features like SiriusXM satellite radio, wireless smartphone charging, and Bang & Olufsen premium sound systems. The Expedition's technology had some quirks, such as accidental activation of the defroster function and issues with the voice-recognition system.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L introduced Active Driving Assist, combining adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assistance. It also featured Intersection Collision Assist and Parallel and Perpendicular Park Assist. However, crash-test ratings were unavailable at the time of review.

The 2022 Ford Expedition offered Ford Co-Pilot360 safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assist, and intersection assist. The Expedition also introduced Road Edge Detection and BlueCruise hands-free driving technology. The adaptive cruise control performed well, but the lane-centering assist had some issues, particularly in heavy traffic.